The topic of E class fares has been around for a while on FlyerTalk. If you remember, we added this fare class a while ago, but until recently, it has been used either as an unpublished fare, has been used for SkyMiles Awards or has not shown up with a fare associated with it.

As you know, on Tuesday we started promoting new fares in select markets that are called Basic Economy – and it is just what it sounds like. Basic Economy is a basic fare product - the price of a seat without the ability to refund / change the itinerary or select an advance seat assignment. Offering a Basic Economy option gives the most cost conscious customer additional options for their travel by allowing them to purchase their air travel on fares that are similar to those offered by competitors.

There have been some comments about this next part and we would like to clarify. Medallion customers traveling on a Basic Economy fare are still eligible for complimentary upgrades to FC and may be assigned a Preferred Seat by Delta at check-in. Non-Medallion customers still have the option of purchasing an available Preferred Seat 24 hours prior to departure in lieu of the seat Delta assigns. Basic Economy fares still qualify of mileage accrual, MQMs/MQSs, automatic upgrades and all of the other Medallion benefits listed on delta.com.

We know there are several thrifty FlyerTalkers, so we wanted to be especially clear on the parameters around E fares. And in case you missed it, here are some specific questions and answers.

I’ll be here to continue reading and will forward your feedback to the members of the team.